In the faded picture I’m showing off my new prom dress for the camera; my 17-year-old smile buried in cheeks still chubby with the lingering baby fat of childhood.
My bent over posture is either supposed to be sexy or I had cramps – it’s hard to tell.
It was spring 1987 and the strapless mauve sparkle-fest of a grad dress cost my parents more than they could afford. My mind, under the permed hair reminiscent of a Poodle, was filled with excitement and trepidation of what was to come.
As my 30-year high school reunion and graduation for Squamish’s Grade 12 students fast approaches, I’ve been thinking about what I would say to the girl in the photo if I could go back in time to chat with myself.
Perhaps my backward musings will be of use for some Squamish kids counting the weeks till high school ends.
Firstly, don’t guzzle the rum and Cokes after the prom, that doesn’t end well.
More importantly, all that stressing about your life’s plans you’ve been doing, it winds up being a bit of a waste of time and energy.
Life is not like riding a bike. There’s no way to figure it out to ensure the ride ahead is always smooth. Life is more of a roller coaster ride in the dark so pick the best car you can and then hang on for the ride.
And I know everyone is asking you what you want to do and be, but don’t let the avalanche of questions and advice get to you. There’s no right or wrong answer. There’s only your answer and you will find it.
Resilience is the best quality to nurture. There are those who sink at the sight of a wave and those who swim – learn how to swim.
And that thing you do, always looking for external validation in order to like yourself. That doesn’t serve you well.
Stop trying to be someone you’re not. You waste so much time, and time is more precious than you realize as you stare into the Kodak camera flash bulb.
The best times you will have will be when you are true to yourself and find your tribe of others who have done the same.
As for prom, it is a moment and time you don’t often think about once the hangover wears off. So relax, and enjoy. The best is yet to come.
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